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ASP Staff Information

Dr. Chad H. Bennett, Ed. D Interim Program Director

Dr. Bennett earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degree in Psychology from Shippensburg University. He is recently earned his Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership through Duquesne University. Before he came to the Academic Success Program, Dr. Bennett worked as the Academic Coordinator of Student Athletes for Shippensburg University for over 4 years. Prior to that he served as the director of a youth shelter in Harrisburg, Pa, while also playing a stint of professional soccer in the USL. In addition, Dr. Bennett has presented at the local, state and international level and has been published in the monograph for the Educational Leadership Development Conference at St. Peter's College, University of Oxford, England. Dr. Bennett enjoys spending time outdoors participating in various sports, enjoys music, doing home improvements and lives with his wife in Shippensburg.

"Find the course that will bring you happiness. Don't be that person who looks back and has regrets. Always listen to your heart and soul for these will never fail you in life." - Chad

Dr. Kurt LazaroffInterim Program Counselor

Mr. Jaime JuarezLearning Specialist/Academic Coach

Mr. Juarez was born and raised in central California. He is a first generation Mexican-American and EOP (ACT 101) alumni. He earned a B.A. in English and History from California State University, Fresno and completed his M.A. in English at Shippensburg University.

Prior to joining the ASP and Learning Center, Mr. Juarez worked at numerous colleges and universities, including Fresno State, University of Washington, Harrisburg Area Community College, and Penn State Harrisburg. He has worked with several ACT 101 programs in California, Washington and Pennsylvania as a tutor, advisor, counselor, and administrator.

Mr. Juarez and his wife, Sharon Stockton, live in Carlisle, PA, and have three children, Eugene, Cristina, and Katherine. He enjoys reading, writing, gardening, and is an avid film buff.

Ms. Tiffany SmithCoordinator of Academic Support and Access Programs

Ms. Smith is originally from Philadelphia and attended Bloomsburg University for her undergraduate experience. Upon graduating, she received a degree in Communications Studies with a focus in Interpersonal Communications. After finishing at Bloomsburg, she went on to work at an all-boys, boarding school in the suburbs of Philadelphia. There she performed in a variety of capacities including, math instruction, student advising, learning instruction and support, and more.

In May, Ms. Smith will receive a Master's degree in College Counseling from Shippensburg University. Since beginning at Ship, she has spent time working as a Residence Director and has worked in Harley and McCune Halls. She has completed a year-long internship in the counseling center at Wilson College and hopes at some point to continue her pursuits of a Ph. D. in Counseling or Clinical Psychology.

In her spare time, Ms. Smith enjoys reading, discovering new music, and catching up with friends. Ms. Smith loves movies and is currently working to watch the complete list of Academy Awards Best Picture winning films. In addition, Ms. Smith enjoys volunteering and has given time at local animal shelters, facilitated groups at Drew's Hope, a grief and loss support group, and worked with adults with special needs.

Mr. Curtis SpencerTransition and Outreach Counselor

Ms. Karen Hamilton Advisor

Emily Ruch

Ms. Emily Ruch graduated from Penn State University in 2013 with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. She is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Psychology here at Shippensburg and is working on obtaining certification in Applied Behavior Analysis as well. At Penn State she worked in the Bursars office as well as the school gym and the on campus Café. She was also a part of the Thon organization. In her spare time Emily enjoys playing soccer and tennis, and enjoying time with family and friends.

Julie Kirsch

Mrs. Julie Kirsch graduated from Millersville University in 2007 with Bachelor's degree in Music Education. She is now pursuing a Masters degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. At Millersville, Julie was involved in various music organizations on campus including the wind ensemble, community orchestra and choir. After graduating from Millersville University, Julie worked as an elementary music teacher for 5 years in Pottstown, PA. In her free time Julie enjoys reading, playing music, singing, running, and spending time with friends and family.

Tiffany Bufort

Ms. Tiffany Bufort graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology and minor in criminal justice. She is now pursuing a Master's degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. She plans to specialize in family and children counseling. She is originally from Philadelphia, PA. She enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with friends and family, and attending church.

Amanda Strous

Ms. Amanda Strous is a 2010 graduate from Shippensburg University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Minor in Art. She played DII Field Hockey as a Lady Raider all four years in her undergraduate. She is now an Assistant Coach for the Field Hockey Program and is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. Before coming into the Master’s program, Amanda coached field hockey in Clinton, New York at Hamilton College, as the Assistant Coach. In her free time, she enjoys sports, snowboarding, art, music, the beach, her faith, and spending time with friends and family.

Alyssa Gibson

Ms. Alyssa Gibson graduated
from Shippensburg University in 2013 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.
She is now perusing a Master’s degree in Psychology and is working to obtain
certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. She is also a server at University
Grille which is a popular restaurant for students and faculty. In her free time
Alyssa enjoys reading, listening to music, and being with friends.

Amanda Raudaubaugh

Ms. Amanda Raudabaugh graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a
minor in Human Communications from Shippensburg University in 2012. Currently
she is working towards earning her master’s degree from Shippensburg University
in Professional School Counseling. While earning her undergraduate degree she
ran for the Shippensburg Track and Field team for four years and the Cross
Country team for two years. She is currently a volunteer assistant coach for the
Shippensburg XC and Track and field teams. In her free time she enjoys running
and working out, reading books, watching movies, singing, cooking, and spending
time with friends and family.